Our pick of family-friendly events from 21 – 23 November 2025. Here’s what’s on for kids this weekend in Christchurch…
Christchurch parents are in for a lively weekend with Christmas cheer popping up everywhere and enough kid-friendly events to fill the calendar twice over. There are markets, fairs, dinosaurs, parades and even a few chances to get the Christmas shopping sorted while the kids are distracted by something shiny. It is one of those weekends where families can stay close to home or head out on an adventure without driving far, and there is genuinely something for every age and every mood. Perfect for anyone looking for fun things to do with kids in Christchurch.
Search our events calendar for more family-friendly events for kids here.
What’s on for kids this weekend in Christchurch:
Courtenay A&P Show
The Courtenay A&P Show is always a hit with Canterbury families. There is a petting zoo with pigs, sheep and goats, a hobby horse obstacle course, tractors to climb into, sideshows, wood chopping and the terrier race at 1.30pm. A lolly scramble follows the Grand Parade and there is even a Clydesdale mare and foal to pat. The day finishes with live music from Assembly Required at 3.30pm to celebrate the 150th show. A classic rural day out.
When: Saturday 22 November, from 8.30am
Where: Kirwee Showgrounds
How much: Adults $15, under 16s free
More details here.
Otautahi Christmas Festival
Christchurch is warming up for peak festive spirit with the Otautahi Christmas Festival. Think market finds, tasty food, rides the kids will spot from a mile away and a Christmas grotto that feels like stepping into a childhood memory. Santa, face painting, pony rides and the Silly Billy Magic Show keep things lively. It is a big one for families looking for Christmas events in Christchurch, so expect excitement levels to run high.
When: Friday 21 November, 4.30pm to 9.30pm, Saturday 22 November, 10am to 4.30pm
Where: Canterbury A&P Showgrounds, Curletts Road
How much: Free entry and free easy parking via Curletts Road
More details here.
Baby and Toddler Clearance Sale
Parents across Canterbury wait all year for this one. The Baby and Toddler Clearance Sale is stacked with brands families love and prices that make you wonder if you should have brought a suitcase. Perfect for Christmas gifts, birthday presents or topping up essentials. The team is friendly and helpful, although it pays to be speedy because the good stuff tends to disappear faster than a packet of wipes in a nappy bag.
When: Friday 21 November, 5pm to 7pm and Saturday 22 November, 9am to 12pm
Where: 25 Nga Mahi Road, Sockburn
How much: Free to attend
More details here.
Santa Arrives at Westfield Riccarton
Santa is setting up shop at Westfield Riccarton and he is bringing Mrs Claus and a procession of festive helpers. There will be singing, dancing and a full parade that winds through Level 2 before Santa settles into his big red chair. A top pick for families wanting a Christmas parade that is easy to get to and fun for kids of all ages.
When: Saturday 22 November, 12.30pm to 2pm
Where: Westfield Riccarton, Level 2
How much: Free
More details here.
The Lincoln Kids Market
Young entrepreneurs are taking over the Lincoln Event Centre for the return of the Kids Market. There are more than 90 stalls with pre loved treasures, handmade goodies and Christmas gift ideas. It is a wholesome, community-centred afternoon and a great way to support young sellers who take great pride in their tables.
When: Saturday 22 November, 2pm to 4pm
Where: Lincoln Event Centre
How much: Free entry
More details here.
DINOVEMBER at Tūranga
Tūranga is going full Jurassic with a roar friendly morning of activities. There are stories, crafts, and meet and greets with real authors. Kids are encouraged to wear their best dinosaur outfits and there are prizes for effort and creativity. Families who took part in the soft toy sleepover can pick up their toys and find out who behaved themselves and who got up to prehistoric mischief. A fun school holiday-style event for younger kids.
When: Saturday 22 November, 11am to 1pm
Where: Tūranga, Cathedral Square
How much: Free
More details here.
Christmas Encraftment Market
Shoppers looking for handmade, local and genuinely beautiful products will be in their element at the Encraftment Market. It is one of Christchurch’s most popular craft markets with food, refreshments and an impressive line up of talented makers. Thousands attend every year and many tackle their Christmas shopping in one go.
When: Saturday 22 to Sunday 23 November, 10am to 4pm
Where: 75 Lyttelton Street
How much: Free entry
More details here.
Addington Fun Fair
Families in Addington are in for a cheerful morning at this community fun fair. Expect a mix of stalls, food, coffee, games and live music. It is relaxed, friendly and a good size for kids who like to explore without feeling overwhelmed.
When: Saturday 22 November, 11am to 1.30pm
Where: St Marys Church, Church Square, Addington
How much: Free
More details here.
Tiny Town Papanui
Tiny Town is rolling into Papanui with its popular mobile role play village. Kids aged 0 to 6 can explore ten themed play zones including a cafe, vet clinic and construction site. It is packed with wooden toys, dress ups and plenty of hands on fun. Perfect for imaginative play and guaranteed to tire out little minds and bodies.
When: Saturday 22 November, 9.30am to 12.30pm
Where: Chapel Street Church, Harewood Road
How much: $20
More details here.
The Selwyn Fete
The Selwyn Fete brings together more than 100 vendors with clothing, homewares, garden pieces, food, drinks and live music. The real hero is the access to Broadfield Gardens which is included with your ticket. Families can wander through native plantings, forests, rose gardens, a canal and more. It is one of the most beautiful garden settings in the region and a brilliant backdrop for a day of shopping and strolling.
When: Sunday 23 November, 11am to 4pm
Where: Broadfield Gardens, Rolleston
How much: Ticketed
More details here.
VIP Frames and Trusses Christmas Show Parade
The big Christchurch Christmas Parade is back at Canterbury Agricultural Park. This is the huge one with characters, floats, an amusement park, food vendors and a Christmas market. Kids will spot Batman, Mickey Mouse, Cinderella, Beauty and the Beast and plenty more. The free Bentley’s Santa Express makes getting there easier from the Bus Exchange, Eastgate or The Hub Hornby. It is a full day out and a firm favourite for Canterbury families.
When: Sunday 23 November, 11am to 4.30pm
Where: Canterbury Agricultural Park
How much: Free
More details here.
